The Radiance of Knowing

Even though it’s a great tradition with a long history, some
couples choose not to greet their guests in a receiving line
fearing that this might take too long. Frank Gregoli, a top New
York party planner says realistically, one should allow 30
minutes for every 100 people in the line. If this time allotment
fits within your plans and you’d like to be certain that you
personally welcome and thank each of your guests, read on.

Know the Basics

Being familiar with the basics of what a receiving line is all
about will immediately help you to feel comfortable with this
elegant formality.

Exactly when and where the receiving line is formed is really
based upon your particular situation. In general, people like to
form their line either in the vestibule right after the ceremony
or at the entrance to the reception area.

With the exception of the groom, this is really a lady’s affair.
Here’s the lineup: first in line is the bride’s mother, followed
by the bride, the groom and, next to him, his mother.

Dads, groomsmen, bridesmaids, and children in the wedding party
generally are not a part of the receiving line. If for some
reason you choose to include any of these people, keep in mind
that every person you add will cause the line to proceed slower.

Short and Sweet

Once everyone is in position, the rule should be to keep
greetings brief yet warm and sincere. This will avoid a
bottleneck. If there is time before your wedding day, review
your list of guests with the groom and parents. A little
homework never hurts.

Since your mother and you are the first in line, it’s expected
that relatives and friends of his side of the family will
introduce themselves to each of you. As your relatives and
friends proceed, you should introduce them to the groom and his
mother.

Include the Pleasantries Consider adding a few pleasantries if
your receiving line will not be in a house of worship. This will
liven up everyone’s mood, get conversations going, and make
waiting in line easier for your guests. For instance, you could:
Include musicHave the band or your dj positioned close enough
so that there is music in the background. Plan ahead though. You
don’t want to have to take time to make these arrangements at
the last moment. Pass the trayAsk your caterer to set hors
d’oeuvres and champagne on a table nearby or have a waiter offer
these on a tray.

Receiving Guests Like a Pro

There are always instances where, for one reason or another, a
person’s name is not ready to roll off your tongue. You can
handle these moments as if you’ve been in receiving lines all
your life by saying something like: “I’m so glad you came.
(Groom’s name) and I hope you’ll have a wonderful time.” Or you
could say, “It’s great to see you again. Please say hello to my
husband, (Groom’s name).” Or “Thank you so much for coming.
(Groom’s name) and I feel lucky to be with so many good
friends.”

Keeping these simple ideas in mind will help you look and feel
like a savvy new bride.

© Copyright 2005 Bachcroft.com. Permission to reprint this
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